Supporting Statement Part B

SUPPORTING STATEMENT PART B -

B. Collections of Information Employing Statistical Methods

1. Describe (including a numerical estimate) the potential respondent universe and any sampling or other respondent selection method to be used. Data on the number of entities (e.g., establishments, State and local government units, households, or persons) in the universe covered by the collection and in the corresponding sample are to be provided in tabular form for the universe as a whole and for each of the strata in the proposed sample. Indicate expected response rates for the collection as a whole. If the collection had been conducted previously, include the actual response rate achieved during the last collection.

The potential universe of respondents are all companies that would be applying for CHIPS funding for both this NOFO as well two subsequent NOFOs on suppliers and research and development the Department plans to issue later this year.. The CPO plans to provide a high-level aggregation of the data provided by the companies. No additional surveys are planned at this time.

2. Describe the procedures for the collection of information including:

• Statistical methodology for stratification and sample selection,

• Estimation procedure,

• Degree of accuracy needed for the purpose described in the justification,

• Unusual problems requiring specialized sampling procedures, and

Any use of periodic (less frequent than annual) data collection cycles to reduce burden.

Data analysis will be limited to simple cross tab aggregation of the data collected. For example, the agency will develop reports showing the number of statements of interest submitted, correlated by geographic area, cross referenced with the proposed type of project submitted in the statement of interest. All planned analysis is simple aggregation by the category of information collected. There is no complex data analysis planned.

3. Describe methods to maximize response rates and to deal with issues of non-response. The accuracy and reliability of information collected must be shown to be adequate for intended uses. For collections based on sampling, a special justification must be provided for any collection that will not yield "reliable" data that can be generalized to the universe studied.

Response rate is not applicable. The data is being analyzed against the resultant respondents for the purpose of reporting aggregate data. Soliciting, incentivizing, or any other efforts to increase the number of responses is not planned.

4. Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken. Testing is encouraged as an effective means of refining collections of information to minimize burden and improve utility. Tests must be approved if they call for answers to identical questions from 10 or more respondents. A proposed test or set of tests may be submitted for approval separately or in combination with the main collection of information.

There are no test procedures involved in the collection or analysis of this data.

5. Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on statistical aspects of the design and the name of the agency unit, contractor(s), grantee(s), or other person(s) who will actually collect and/or analyze the information for the agency.

This analysis will not require the expertise of statisticians. Cross referencing aggregate data is a standard business analysis function that doesn’t require complex statistical analysis techniques.